The asteroid that killed the dinosaurs may have set the stage for ants to conquer the planet, with a surprising boost from “jumping genes” hidden in their DNA. Scientists discovered that bursts of activity from these mobile genetic elements coincided with the rise of major ant groups and may have helped sharpen their extraordinary ability to communicate through smell.
The asteroid that killed the dinosaurs may have helped ants conquer the world
Source: Science Daily
Original reporting
Science Daily: read the full reportRelated stories
Science Daily
The autistic brain processes faces differently than scientists thought
A major new study reveals that autistic children’s brains process faces differently, and those differences may begin earlier than scientists previously thought. Researchers found that brain signals associated with recognizing faces become more specialized as neurotypical children grow older, but show much less change in autistic children. The discovery could help explain why some autistic people have difficulty recognizing faces and reading emotions.
Science Daily
Scientists discover the immune system’s hidden sense of touch
Scientists at McGill University have discovered a surprising new ability of immune cells that could change how we understand long-term immunity. Researchers found that T cells can actually sense how stiff their surrounding tissues are, using these physical signals to help determine whether they develop into long-lasting memory cells that protect against future infections.
BBC Science
Weather warning lifted as third storm to hit Scotland eases off
Energy provider SSEN says 2,000 properties in the north of Scotland are still without power after days of high winds and heavy rain.
NPR Health
Ebola outbreak tops 10,000 cases
The current outbreak centered in the Democratic Republic of Congo is the fastest spreading outbreak and it's not slowing down. What are the obstacles to getting it under control?
NPR Health2 outlets
Some people with meat allergies from alpha-gal syndrome turn to exotic alternatives
People with alpha-gal syndrome can have allergic reactions to meat from mammals. Many of those affected change their diets to eat other proteins.
BBC Science2 outlets
Will a new strategy help protect Northern Ireland's nature?
About 40% of the plants and animals in protected sites across Northern Ireland fall short of meeting the standard for "favourable condition".